1. Immediate Response:
Act quickly upon learning about the issue. It's not just about making repairs; it's about communication. Let your tenant know you're on it and outline your plan to get quotes and organize repairs. This prompt action can often mitigate the need for rent reductions or disputes.
2. Temporary Solutions:
Discuss with your tenant any immediate, temporary measures that can be taken to alleviate the problem without compromising safety or comfort. This could range from providing access to alternative shower facilities to supplying portable heating solutions if needed.
3. Regular Updates:
Keep the tenant informed about the progress of repairs, including when you or tradespeople will need access to the property. Transparency here is key to maintaining trust and understanding.
Remember to give 24 hours notice if you or the workman want to go inside to inspect the work.
4. Reasonable Repair Time:
While there's no hard and fast rule, acting "as soon as reasonably possible" is the guideline. For something as essential as hot water, efforts should be made to resolve the issue within a few days if possible. Communication is critical during this period to manage expectations.
5. Consideration of Rent Reduction:
If the lack of hot water significantly impacts the livability of the property, offering a rent reduction for the affected period can be a gesture of goodwill. This isn't a strict requirement but can help maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship. The amount or percentage can vary, but it should reflect the level of inconvenience and lack of facilities.
If you're using myRent, you can easily create a rent reduction with all the supported paperwork. The option is available under Rent Settings.
6. Documentation:
Record all communications and agreements regarding the incident and resolution in writing. This not only helps in maintaining clarity between all parties but also serves as a record should any dispute arise later.
7. Maintenance and Inspections:
Use this incident as a reminder of the importance of regular property inspections and maintenance. Staying ahead of potential issues can prevent similar situations in the future.
8. Understanding Rights and Responsibilities:
Landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is maintained in a reasonable state of repair, which includes essential services like hot water. If the property becomes uninhabitable or significantly inconvenienced, discussing temporary relocation or rent adjustments is prudent. In severe cases, if an agreement can't be reached, either party can seek resolution through the Tenancy Tribunal.
9. Tribunal Involvement:
Should there be a dispute over the handling of the situation, the Tenancy Tribunal is there to help resolve issues, whether it's enforcing repairs, determining compensation, or in extreme cases, considering the termination of the tenancy.
Read more: Maintenance and Repairs: who's responsible?
**
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not, and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law in New Zealand. If you require legal advice you should seek independent legal counsel. myRent.co.nz does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
